The Torino Trail is one of the maintained trails in the Santa Rosa Ecological Reserve. Although not very long, this trail still provides one with mountain biking thrills along with vivid examples of classic Southern California Landscape. The elevation gain on this ride is very little, however, it still provides different features along the ride that make it exciting.

Trail Description

To get to the trail from the parking area, follow the little connection trail, which leads you to where the Tornino and Tovashal Trail connect (or where each begin). You could call these two trails a loop, but they are labeled as different trails. Take the trail thats on the your left (the one that heads SE). The trail goes up and down as it traverse oak, sage and brushweed landscape. There are a few sections that could be considered a little techincal, but they are relitively easy for the experience rider. The trail then spits you out onto the Sylvan Meadows Loop. From here, you can continue to ride the loop and come back on the same trail (or the Tovashal Trail) or just take the same trail back to the parking.

Also, there are sections where you encounter some poison oak. Avoid these plants and if you come into contact, wash with soap and water or use other store bought remedies for Poison Oak.

Getting There

From Murrieta- If your heading south on the 15 fwy, take a right onto Clinton Keith Road and if your going north, take a left. Follow Clinton Keith up into the hills and go past the Bear Creek area and past the fire station. Once you reach the top of the hill, there will be signs for the Santa Rosa Plateau Vistor Center. Right across the street from the visitor center is the parking and trail head for both the Torino and Tovashal Trail.

When to Bike

You can ride this trail year round, but as with most areas in Southern California, avoid the summer becuase the temperature can get well over 100 degrees. Fall and Spring are the best times to ride this trail generally.